..bits of our life and photography

Ho Ho Ho. He’s jolly. It’s santa Claus.

“Ho ho ho, Merry Christmas” is what we heard as a jolly Santa Claus entered the building. He walked from table to table greeting and talking with all of the children before making his way to his own chair with a cozy lap and an ear to lend, listening to their Christmas lists.

Brandon scanned the room and asked where the chimney was that Santa came down so I explained that he parked his sleigh on the roof and came down into the building using magic of course.

Brandon was up first and as he sat on Santa’s lap and showed him his Christmas list, Santa read the list aloud, one by one, all fourteen. Then Brandon casually mentioned that his sister wanted a doll. Santa assured him Olive would be getting a doll this year. He’s so thoughtful, that Santa, and our boy too.

(I love how it looks like Mickey Mouse is whispering in his ear)

My favorite part was when they started waving together. It was so sweet.

And then..

It was Olive’s turn too.

Okay so it wasn’t as bad as the Halloween experience but I don’t think she will be greeting Santa Claus with open arms any time soon. Santa loved her and thought she was just the sweetest little girl and so very cute. She only cried for a short moment after this picture was taken. Once she was back in my arms again she was fine and didn’t seem to mind Santa’s presence.

Our niece and her son Gabriel met us there, along with Chris and Mark and we all enjoyed pizza together and watched the kids run back and fourth from our table to Santa and back again all the while collecting candy canes from a nearby bowl.

Gabe was a little hesitant and unsure about Santa at first but before long all of that hesitation faded and he was on his lap ready for his picture.

He’s jolly. He rocks. Our Santa has a tattoo! Awesome.

It was a magical night for the kids. Just what they needed. It was such a blessing we got to share this time with our family.

Afterwards, we headed home for some coloring before Olive’s bedtime.

Check out all of this new hair Olive is getting.

Then, Brandon and I watched Toy Story 2 before he drifted off to sleep in the chair with Mickey Mouse.